COMMUNITY
?? This week, we celebrate Ronald Bergwerk from the USA as our newest 193 Grandmaster, having completed the incredible journey of visiting all 193 United Nations member countries!
MTP UPDATES
? Our founder, Charles Veley, just reached the milestone of visiting 1,400 MTP regions - only the 2nd person ever to accomplish the feat! Now he and P are neck and neck in the race for #1!
?? We are so happy to announce that Jaime Alemán is joining us as a Summit 25 speaker! Jaime is an extraordinary traveler who made history in 2005 as the first person to visit all 193 UN member states, both the North and South Poles, and travel to space. In his talk, “How to Travel to Space When You’re Done with 193 and Both Poles,” he’ll share what keeps him pushing boundaries, even after he’s truly been everywhere.
WORLD'S NEWS
WORLD'S NEWS
??x?? Mali Demands Up to $10,000 Bond for U.S. Visitors — A Visa Tit-for-Tat
In a bold move of reciprocity, Mali has announced that starting October 23, 2025, U.S. citizens applying for tourist or business visas will need to deposit a bond of up to $10,000: the same requirement the U.S. is now imposing on Malian applicants. Mali’s government says this matches the principle of “equal treatment,” and argues that the U.S. decision violates an earlier bilateral visa agreement. The bond will be refunded if visa holders depart within the allowed timeframe and follow the conditions of their visa.
? Greece Hits Tourists with Heavy Fines to Protect Landmarks and Nature
Greece has joined Spain, France, and Italy in implementing strict measures to protect its cultural and natural heritage from tourist misconduct. The new regulations impose fines of up to €1,750 for behaviors such as climbing ancient ruins, collecting shells or pebbles from beaches, and disturbing wildlife. These measures aim to preserve Europe's iconic sites and ensure their accessibility for future generations.
??✈️ Ethiopian Airlines Resumes Daily Flights to Port Sudan
Ethiopian Airlines has restarted daily flights between Addis Ababa and Port Sudan, boosting tourism, humanitarian operations, and travel for the diaspora in Northeast Africa. The move strengthens regional connectivity and makes it easier for travelers to reach this important Red Sea hub.